Wobbly Walks and Head Tilts: What You Need to Know

Vestibular disease in dogs can be alarming for pet owners. It affects the vestibular system, which controls balance and movement coordination. Symptoms can appear suddenly and dramatically, but the good news is that the condition is often benign and manageable.

What Exactly is Vestibular Disease?

The vestibular system includes parts of the inner ear and brain that help maintain balance. When disrupted, dogs may display symptoms that resemble a stroke.

Common symptoms to watch out for include:

• Head tilt
• Loss of balance or coordination
• Circling or falling to one side
• Rapid, involuntary eye movements (nystagmus)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Reluctance to stand or walk

What Causes It?

There are two main types of vestibular disease: peripheral and central. Peripheral vestibular disease is the more common form and affects the inner ear. It can be caused by ear infections, head trauma, hypothyroidism, ototoxic medications, or it may be idiopathic, meaning no known cause, especially in older dogs. Central vestibular disease, which involves the brainstem, may result from inflammation, infections such as meningitis, tumors, toxins, or strokes.

How We Diagnose and Treat It at Kensington Vet

If you’re concerned your dog is showing signs of vestibular disease, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

At Kensington Veterinary Clinic, we can:

• Perform a thorough physical exam
• Check your dog’s ear health
• Recommend additional diagnostics such as blood tests or imaging (in-clinic X-rays or
  referral for MRI)

Treatment Options

Treatment varies depending on the type and cause of the vestibular disease. In cases of peripheral vestibular disease, particularly idiopathic cases, symptoms often resolve on their own within a few weeks. Supportive care is crucial and may include anti-nausea medications, soft bedding, and measures to prevent falls. If an infection is diagnosed, appropriate antibiotics or antifungal medications will be prescribed. Because this form typically affects senior dogs, those with pre-existing arthritis may need additional pain relief, as the loss of balance can lead to falls that strain already painful joints.

Central vestibular disease tends to be more serious and requires targeted treatment based on the underlying cause. This may include medications for infections or surgical intervention for tumors. Early diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan are essential for the best possible outcome.

Outlook for Recovery

Most dogs with idiopathic vestibular disease begin to improve within 72 hours. Some may retain a slight head tilt, but many return to their normal, happy selves. Prognosis for other causes depends on the underlying condition, so early diagnosis is key.

When to Call Us Immediately

While vestibular disease often looks worse than it is, certain symptoms can indicate something more serious.

Contact us right away if your dog:

• Loses consciousness
• Has seizures
• Displays signs of severe pain
• Shows additional neurological symptoms (e.g., limb weakness, paralysis)

Helping Your Dog at Home

Supporting your dog through recovery at home is important for their comfort and recovery. This may be done by providing them a quiet, calm environment where they can rest and using non-slip rugs or mats to help prevent falls on slippery surfaces. You may need to assist with food and water if your dog is unsteady or reluctant to move.

Seeing your dog struggle with vestibular symptoms can be distressing, but with prompt veterinary care and supportive treatment, most dogs recover well. If you have any concerns, we’re just a phone call away.